Last edit by: aBroadAbroad
This thread is for posting questions and specific news/updates of direct relevance to those traveling in or to the area.
Discussion of underlying and peripheral issues, comparisons to similar past events, and speculation about future conditions
belong in OMNI/PR or the Thai News & Open Discussion Thread. Off-topic posts will be moved or deleted.
Thanks for your assistance.
Discussion of underlying and peripheral issues, comparisons to similar past events, and speculation about future conditions
belong in OMNI/PR or the Thai News & Open Discussion Thread. Off-topic posts will be moved or deleted.
Thanks for your assistance.
Update
13 June 2014:
Curfew has been lifted nationwide.
Travel advisories issued by a number of foreign governments remain in place. Check your country's embassy or consular website for travel advice and updates.
Courts martial have been established for violators of criminal code sections dealing with lθse-majestι, and those covering the broad subject of "national security" (including civilian violators). The NCPO has warned that it will crackdown on anti-coup protests if they do not cease. Visitors are strongly advised to stay away from all political gatherings.
Media gag has been eased, but strict censorship orders are in place, with local press and broadcast outlets reporting only approved content. ISPs have been ordered to monitor social media, and to block disruptive or "negative" content. Accurate and comprehensive information remains difficult to obtain, both in and out of the country. Censorship violations are among those subject to courts martial.
Hotlines for Tourists in Thailand
- TAT Call Centre 1672
- Tourist Police Call Centre 1155
- Traffic Police Call Centre 1197
- BMTA (city bus and van service) Call Centre 1348
- BTS Hotline +66 (0) 2617 6000
- MRT Customer Relations Center +66 (0) 2624 5200
- SRT (train service) Call Centre 1690
- Transport Co., Ltd., (inter-provincial bus service) Call Centre 1490
- AOT (Suvarnabhumi Airport) Call Centre 1722
- Thai Airways International Call Centre +66 (0) 2356 1111
- Bangkok Airways Call Centre 1771
- Nok Air Call Centre 1318
- Thai AirAsia Call Centre +66 (0) 2515 9999
Links to External Information Sources
- Rolling breaking news updates: Bangkok Post Lite Version (might load better than the full site for some users)
- Updates from TAT News: Tourism Authority of Thailand
- Breaking News: Thai PBS
- Latest News from NNT: National News Bureau of Thailand (government public relations)
- Travel blogger Richard Barrow: Thai news twitter feed (ongoing updates)
- Richard Barrow's map: Protest Sites in Bangkok in May 2014 (updated regularly)
- Independent web-based Thai news publication: Prachatai - Coup 2014 (English)
Special thanks to FTer c_9 for initiating this Wikipost
Safety of Travel in Thailand 2014 Martial Law, Peaceful Military Coup
#616
Join Date: Jun 2014
Posts: 3
statement by TAT...
Hi All,
FYI, i've recently gone through the information updated on Thailand situation.... this might be helpful for you more or less i guess. so i just share this for you guys information.
FYI, i've recently gone through the information updated on Thailand situation.... this might be helpful for you more or less i guess. so i just share this for you guys information.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pleased to announce that all tourism-related businesses and services in destinations throughout the kingdom have resumed normal operations following the lifting of nationwide curfew as of last Friday (TAT Newsroom: Breaking News! Nationwide curfew lifted from 13 June 2014).
The lifting of nationwide curfew by the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), currently overseeing Thailand’s administration, came after the council gradually lifted curfew in major Thai tourist destinations over the last two weeks, thus demonstrating the council’s commitment to promote Thailand’s tourism.
TAT wants to assure all tourists visiting the kingdom that “it’s business as usual in Thailand” and that tourism remains unaffected by the current political transition period.
Thailand is always ready to welcome tourists to come here to enjoy their days in the sun and taking in the sights of the temples, mountains and beaches, as well as treating themselves to the many fine-dining, nightlife, spa treatment and shopping for which the country is famous.
All tourism-related businesses and services as well as all airports throughout Thailand, including at key destinations including Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Ko Samui, Hat Yai, Chiang Mai, Krabi and Phang-nga are operating as per normal.
The lifting of nationwide curfew by the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), currently overseeing Thailand’s administration, came after the council gradually lifted curfew in major Thai tourist destinations over the last two weeks, thus demonstrating the council’s commitment to promote Thailand’s tourism.
TAT wants to assure all tourists visiting the kingdom that “it’s business as usual in Thailand” and that tourism remains unaffected by the current political transition period.
Thailand is always ready to welcome tourists to come here to enjoy their days in the sun and taking in the sights of the temples, mountains and beaches, as well as treating themselves to the many fine-dining, nightlife, spa treatment and shopping for which the country is famous.
All tourism-related businesses and services as well as all airports throughout Thailand, including at key destinations including Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Ko Samui, Hat Yai, Chiang Mai, Krabi and Phang-nga are operating as per normal.
Last edited by aBroadAbroad; Jun 20, 2014 at 9:35 am Reason: Moved. Originally posted in incorrect, non-Thailand forum. Reformatted for readability.
#617
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: BKK
Programs: AA Plat, HH Diamond, SPG Gold
Posts: 2,395
FYI: Updated travel alert from U.S. Embassy
Nothing new here, but an emailed update nonetheless...
U.S. Embassy Bangkok
Security Message - Travel Alert
June 20, 2014
The U.S. Department of State reminds U.S. citizens to be alert to the current political and security environment in Thailand under martial law. On May 22, the Royal Thai Army seized control of Thailands administration under the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) and imposed a nationwide night time curfew. On June 13, the NCPO lifted the curfew, but authorities have cautioned it could be reinstated. Martial law remains in effect throughout Thailand. This Travel Alert supersedes the Travel Alert issued on May 28, 2014, to reflect the lifting of the Thailand-wide curfew. This Travel Alert will expire on August 21, 2014.
Be aware that under martial law the governing NCPO has considerable security powers. These powers grant the NCPO the authority to prevent public gatherings, restrict media, set up checkpoints, and search for weapons. Individuals have been detained for publicly criticizing Thailands military takeover, the NCPO, and the Thai monarchy. Security operations against possible demonstrations have led to traffic disruptions as well as temporary closures of some public transport services, and restriction of access to some areas around major shopping and hotel districts in central Bangkok.
U.S. citizens may encounter a heightened security, including military, presence throughout Thailand, particularly in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. U.S citizens are cautioned to avoid protest sites, demonstrations, and large gatherings. Although many protest activities have been peaceful, violent incidents involving guns and explosive devices have occurred at or near protest sites. Some resulted in injury or death. Even demonstrations that are meant to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Be alert and aware of your surroundings and pay attention to local and international news media reports. You should allow extra time when travelling thought the city or to/from airports.
U.S. citizens who travel to or reside in Thailand are strongly advised to enroll in the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). U.S. citizens without Internet access may enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. By enrolling, you make it easier for the U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in case of an emergency.
Unless otherwise indicated in a public announcement, the U.S. Embassy is open for all routine American Citizens Services by appointment. U.S. citizens needing emergency assistance do not need an appointment. The American Citizen Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy is located at 95 Wireless Road in Bangkok, and can be reached by calling 66-2-205-4049, or by e-mailing [email protected]. The Embassy's after-hours emergency telephone number is 66-2-205-4000.
The U.S. Consulate General in Chiang Mai located at 387 Wichayanond Road in Chiang Mai, is also open unless otherwise indicated. The American Citizen Services Unit of the Consulate General can be reached by calling 66-53-107-777 and by e-mail at [email protected]. The after-hours emergency telephone number is 66-81-881-1878. You can also follow the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok's American Citizen Services Unit on Twitter for further updates.
Current information on safety and security can also be obtained on our Bureau of Consular Affairs website or by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States or a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444 for callers from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State's Country Specific Information for Thailand Stay up to date by bookmarking our Bureau of Consular Affairs website which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook as well.
Security Message - Travel Alert
June 20, 2014
The U.S. Department of State reminds U.S. citizens to be alert to the current political and security environment in Thailand under martial law. On May 22, the Royal Thai Army seized control of Thailands administration under the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) and imposed a nationwide night time curfew. On June 13, the NCPO lifted the curfew, but authorities have cautioned it could be reinstated. Martial law remains in effect throughout Thailand. This Travel Alert supersedes the Travel Alert issued on May 28, 2014, to reflect the lifting of the Thailand-wide curfew. This Travel Alert will expire on August 21, 2014.
Be aware that under martial law the governing NCPO has considerable security powers. These powers grant the NCPO the authority to prevent public gatherings, restrict media, set up checkpoints, and search for weapons. Individuals have been detained for publicly criticizing Thailands military takeover, the NCPO, and the Thai monarchy. Security operations against possible demonstrations have led to traffic disruptions as well as temporary closures of some public transport services, and restriction of access to some areas around major shopping and hotel districts in central Bangkok.
U.S. citizens may encounter a heightened security, including military, presence throughout Thailand, particularly in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. U.S citizens are cautioned to avoid protest sites, demonstrations, and large gatherings. Although many protest activities have been peaceful, violent incidents involving guns and explosive devices have occurred at or near protest sites. Some resulted in injury or death. Even demonstrations that are meant to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Be alert and aware of your surroundings and pay attention to local and international news media reports. You should allow extra time when travelling thought the city or to/from airports.
U.S. citizens who travel to or reside in Thailand are strongly advised to enroll in the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). U.S. citizens without Internet access may enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. By enrolling, you make it easier for the U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in case of an emergency.
Unless otherwise indicated in a public announcement, the U.S. Embassy is open for all routine American Citizens Services by appointment. U.S. citizens needing emergency assistance do not need an appointment. The American Citizen Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy is located at 95 Wireless Road in Bangkok, and can be reached by calling 66-2-205-4049, or by e-mailing [email protected]. The Embassy's after-hours emergency telephone number is 66-2-205-4000.
The U.S. Consulate General in Chiang Mai located at 387 Wichayanond Road in Chiang Mai, is also open unless otherwise indicated. The American Citizen Services Unit of the Consulate General can be reached by calling 66-53-107-777 and by e-mail at [email protected]. The after-hours emergency telephone number is 66-81-881-1878. You can also follow the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok's American Citizen Services Unit on Twitter for further updates.
Current information on safety and security can also be obtained on our Bureau of Consular Affairs website or by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States or a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444 for callers from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State's Country Specific Information for Thailand Stay up to date by bookmarking our Bureau of Consular Affairs website which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook as well.
#618
Join Date: Apr 2014
Location: UK
Posts: 272
God or Buddha or whoever is in charge is having some fun lately. The other day there was a fireworks show at Lumpini. Not sure why. Didn't know it was going to happen. But around 8:00 PM there were probably 50 explosions. In this environment and in that area it made me a tad nervous.
Then 6:00 AM this morning a transformer blew, killing power momentarily. A big explosion right next to my apartment.
I don't need this, thank you.
Then 6:00 AM this morning a transformer blew, killing power momentarily. A big explosion right next to my apartment.
I don't need this, thank you.
#619
Join Date: Apr 2012
Posts: 14
Latest news according to TAT [excerpt of press release from Tourism Authority of Thailand, a gov't agency; some material redacted]:
"As Thailand is moving forwards national reconciliation and reforms under the administration of the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), a series of positive developments and measures have been introduced and enforced to help improve the experience of travellers and tourists visiting the kingdom.
"Among the measures include the NCPO’s plan to computerise the taxi queues at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in an effort to cut down on illicit control of cab operations and the clampdown on illegal airport taxi operations in Phuket.
"The council also ordered a clear-out of more than 100 businesses operating along the beachfronts at Surin, Bang Tao, Laypang and Layan Beaches in Phuket, in an attempt to return the areas to their natural pristine states."
- See more at: http://www.tatnews.org/thailand-tour....U3OvU5Zi.dpuf
"Among the measures include the NCPO’s plan to computerise the taxi queues at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in an effort to cut down on illicit control of cab operations and the clampdown on illegal airport taxi operations in Phuket.
"The council also ordered a clear-out of more than 100 businesses operating along the beachfronts at Surin, Bang Tao, Laypang and Layan Beaches in Phuket, in an attempt to return the areas to their natural pristine states."
- See more at: http://www.tatnews.org/thailand-tour....U3OvU5Zi.dpuf
Last edited by aBroadAbroad; Jul 3, 2014 at 4:07 pm Reason: removed unnecessary characterization, further clarified govt source
#620
Join Date: Nov 2012
Location: Germany
Programs: IC Dia, Hyatt Globlist, Hilton Gold, Star Alliance Gold, Emirates Gold, BA Gold
Posts: 558
Visiting Thailand in a couple of weeks and can not wait.
[redacted]
I really hope Thailand sorts itself out, one of my favourite places on the planet to visit. The majority of the people are friendly, love kids and an incredible amount of culture to explore.
i will let you all know my thoughts once i am in Bangkok [redacted]
[redacted]
I really hope Thailand sorts itself out, one of my favourite places on the planet to visit. The majority of the people are friendly, love kids and an incredible amount of culture to explore.
i will let you all know my thoughts once i am in Bangkok [redacted]
Last edited by aBroadAbroad; Jul 2, 2014 at 10:08 am Reason: Removed reply/reference to now-deleted off-topic discussion
#621
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: BKK
Programs: AA Plat, HH Diamond, SPG Gold
Posts: 2,395
A number of off topic and/or inappropriate posts have been removed. If you have a problem with a particular post, use the the alert button in the lower left corner of the post to engage a moderator. Please do not take up in-thread debates, particularly those that devolve to personal attacks.
Please refrain from discussion of matters not specifically related to the thread topic. As explained in the wiki, this thread is being strictly limited to specific travel guidance, while peripheral discussion is being permitted in the http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/thail...iscussion.html (with a great deal of latitude). Those wishing to engage in conversations beyond even the leniency indulged thus far in the lounge thread should feel free to post their thoughts and opinions in the OMNI/PR forum.
Thanks.
~Moderator
Please refrain from discussion of matters not specifically related to the thread topic. As explained in the wiki, this thread is being strictly limited to specific travel guidance, while peripheral discussion is being permitted in the http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/thail...iscussion.html (with a great deal of latitude). Those wishing to engage in conversations beyond even the leniency indulged thus far in the lounge thread should feel free to post their thoughts and opinions in the OMNI/PR forum.
Thanks.
~Moderator
Last edited by aBroadAbroad; Jul 2, 2014 at 12:59 pm Reason: Clarification
#624
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Denmark
Programs: TK Elite
Posts: 11,825
I was in Phuket and BKK for 3 weeks in July. Didn't notice anything related to the coup. Everything works for tourists as usual and some bargins can be made (e.g. hotel rooms) due to the low number of visitors lately. So absolutely nothing to worry about and you should go there.
#625
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Global
Posts: 5,998
We were in Pattaya mid-late July for almost two weeks. Other than a little extra police on the streets, it was normal. (And the extra police could just be something I noticed, not a major difference.)
Hotel rates are rather low right now, so book away!
Hotel rates are rather low right now, so book away!
#626
Suspended
Join Date: Dec 2010
Posts: 4,153
The word Coup sounds scary. However, in Thailand, Coups have been calming and had a positive effect on safety and security. Investors know this as they drive up the THB and the SET. Tourists seem to be less inclined to follow. It's good for those of us who like to travel in style on the cheap
#627
Join Date: Jun 2005
Location: Tri-State Area
Posts: 4,728
I was there with the Mrs. in Feb when protests are it's high
We were back in May - just before the coup
And just got back after 2+weeks July/August, including spending nice quiet dinner on my birthday.
Another trip coming up in late Oct.....
Hotel occupancy improving but excellent deals at hotels - we stayed in huge one bedroom apt unit at Oriental Residences, with bkfast for two, 20% on all F&B for less than B$5000 per night.
You'll be perfectly fine!
We were back in May - just before the coup
And just got back after 2+weeks July/August, including spending nice quiet dinner on my birthday.
Another trip coming up in late Oct.....
Hotel occupancy improving but excellent deals at hotels - we stayed in huge one bedroom apt unit at Oriental Residences, with bkfast for two, 20% on all F&B for less than B$5000 per night.
You'll be perfectly fine!
#628
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: SEA, but up and down the coast a lot
Programs: Oceanic Airlines Gold Elite
Posts: 20,386
#629
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: body: A stone's throw from SFO, mind: SE Asia
Programs: Some of this 'n some of that
Posts: 17,263